In law enforcement, it's sometimes referred to as verbal judo. The practice, also known as tactical communications, is a de-escalation technique used in high-stress situations. Siena's Public Safety officers learned the skills, then gave it a try.
Officer Woody Riboul impressively slipped in and out of character. At the flip of a switch, he would shout, antagonize, and try to provoke a member of Siena's finest. In the role playing exercise, Officer Woody was a person suffering from a mental health crisis, and it was up to a Siena Public Safety officer to find the right words to de-escalate the situation.
Siena's Public Safety officers routinely participate in regular training on wide-ranging topics. They learn new techniques and sharpen skills, in a safe environment, to best serve the Siena community. In December, Ron Matos, director of Public Safety, organized the de-escalation training with Woody Riboul at no charge to Siena. Twenty-four campus public safety officers participated in the nearly four-hour training.
"Officer Woody was very professional and made each scenario seem very real and gave us tips and guidance to help us understand how the point of listening was a key factor in every situation."
John Ricci, public safety officer
"Officer Woody challenged officers by introducing different stressors as the role playing was taking place. Woody would stop the exercise at times to provide tips. The training was very challenging as the scenarios could easily take place at Siena, but in the end was very rewarding for the officers."
Chris Thobae, public safety officer